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Long-Nosed Snake
A burrowing species of snake found in eastern Colorado with striking red and black saddling.
About This Species
Long-nosed snakes have alternating black and red saddling on a light-colored background and are non-venomous. If they feel threatened, they may release a foul-smelling musk and/or blood out of its cloaca.
More Information:
Physical Characteristics
Long-nosed snakes have a long snout and smooth scales with a red and black band pattern down the back. The black areas are speckled with cream or white colors. The belly is light colored with a few dark spots. Adults can reach a total length of 41 in (104 cm).
Range
Southeastern Colorado below 5,000 feet.
Habitat
Mainly found in grasslands, sandhills, and weedy river valleys.
Diet
Known to prey on lizards, small snakes, insects and eggs. They rarely feed on rodents, which make them unpopular for the pet trade.
Reproduction
Little is known about the mating and reproduction of this species. Clutch size averages 6-7 eggs. Eggs average 1.5-2 in x 0.75-1.5 in (40-50 mm x 20-40 mm). Hatchlings average 7.5-9.5 in (19-24 cm) total length and are mostly black (speckling and red color are reduced).